At Light Way we believe that in order to create a nation of empowered,
free-thinking people, we must begin with children. The rights and
responsibilities of freedom are to be learned and earned as part of childhood.
For how can we say we are a democratic society, if our children never
experience democracy except as some vague concept studied in a social studies
course? Democracy requires the participation of the people in order to fully
function as intended.

We also believe that children "are not less intelligent, nor less worthy
of respect than adults, they are merely less experienced." Children do not
gain a greater IQ as they grow older, so we must respect their intelligence by
listening to them and taking action based on their ideas. However, they do need
experiences to grow EQ, or emotional intelligence and basic communication
skills for rich relationships; therefore, it is incumbent upon adults to
provide that experience in a nurturing environment based on mutual respect and
equality.

What Is KidPower(TM)?

KidPower(TM) is a system whereby children experience true power to shape
their environment. At Light Way it is sociocratic in nature.

We have whole school KidPower(TM) council meetings weekly. Rules are made,
conflicts resolved, and ideas shared. Action plans are defined and enacted. All
participants have an equal vote in matters brought to the council. The meeting
is run by an adult lead learner or a child.

Historically we have only had two areas that are open to veto by adults: health
and safety. For example we do not serve or allow food containing food dyes,
additives and preservatives. The circle may not vote to change this tenet.

Why KidPower(TM)?

Participation in KidPower(TM) council meetings increases self-confidence,
verbal abilities, listening skills, compassion, and understanding. It also
empowers children in a way that leads them as adults to have the courage to
speak their Truth. Combined with service-learning projects,
KidPower(TM) builds capacity for making positive change in the world.

Sociocracy vs. Democracy

Simply put democracy is the rule of the majority and sociocracy is the rule of
consensus. In a sociocratic decision-making process, discussion continues until
a solution is found that no-one objects to. At Light Way we believe that the
rule of the majority is just another form of tyranny - that of the majority
over the minority. Democracy was the highest form of government available until
recent decades where we have seen the rise of sociocracy in schools and
businesses. Sociocracy works because people feel heard and understood. For
children it is especially powerful. For many participation in a KidPower(TM) circle
is the first time in their lives that they have felt true power to shape their
lives. The transformations we see in levels of confidence and creativity are
amazing.